Mississippi State head coach Sylvester Croom had to venture into enemy territory but managed to come away with the commitment of Lafayette's Montez Phillips in early August.

The 6-foot-3, 190-pounder from Oxford, Miss., says that it was Croom's honest nature that helped him decide to pursue his collegiate career with the Bulldogs.

"Coach Croom is a great coach and has been pretty straightforward with me," Phillips said. "He told me what position he wanted me to play and how he wanted me to be used in my first year playing. He has been pretty straightforward with me about my situation."

Phillips said he has been in touch with the Bulldog coaching staff once a week since the season began.

Phillips undoubtedly felt pressure from the hometown crowd to stay and play for Ole Miss but he ultimately decided to come south to play for the maroon and white.

"At the time (Mississippi State) was where I wanted to be at," Phillips said. "I wanted to get away from home so I am still pretty strong in coming there."

Phillips said his commitment has not stopped the Rebels from trying to sway his decision.